Paragliding as a form of alternative torism: A study on Uçmakdere

Because tourism activities affect other months in a year and in order to increase tourism revenues, alternative tourism came to the fore. The reason why this topic is studied is that it is not economically benefited enough from the paragliding as a form of alternative tourism in Tekirdağ. In this study, a SWOT analysis was made based on data acquired as a result of the researches. The strong sides of paragliding as a form of alternative tourism in Tekirdağ uçmakdere are; the suitability of the zone for paragliding, the ease of transportation, the closeness to Istanbul. Weak sides are; absence or inadequacy of accomodation places, washrooms, catering places, toilets and enviroment planing. Possible threats are; there is no control for flight certificates and necesary equipments before take offs, which is a threat for the image of the area and safety of flight. Possible opportunities are; during and after flights, both pilots and native and foreign tourists have different needs for consumption. This need, necessiates local businesses, and employees, as a result of this, the economic potential and alternative tourism revenues of the area will increase. Key Words: Alternative Tourism, Paragliding, Ucmakdere.